Kissing was a very ancient custom among Israelites and other peoples of the region. It was a sign of affection between relatives, between friends and between lovers (Gen 29:11; Song of Songs 1:2; 8:1; Matt 26:48; Luke 15:20). It was also a sign of homage to a king (1 Sam 10:1; Ps 2:12; cf. Matt 26:49) or devotion to an idol (1 Kings 19:18; Hosea 13:2). In New Testament times kissing became the customary form of greeting between Christians (Rom 16:16; 1 Peter 5:14).